Philadelphia July 4th Fireworks Too Late For Youngsters, Some Complain
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Philadelphia's Fourth of July concert and fireworks extravaganza on the Ben Franklin Parkway was extremely popular this year. But looking back, did the fireworks display start too late for families?
Most folks didn't seem to mind the 10:30 p.m. start time, but it could be a little late for young children who may want to stay up and watch.
So the question is, should the city move the fireworks to an earlier time?
"There's no reason why they can't do it at 9, when it gets dark," said one woman.
"I thought the fireworks show, which I believe started at 10:30, was adequate," said a man.
Mark MacDonald, press secretary for Mayor Michael Nutter, says the city's Fourth of July celebration was spread over 11 days to ensure that everyone can enjoy the fireworks festivities.
"We have two fireworks displays on successive Saturdays," he said, noting that the earlier fireworks shows started at 9:30 p.m.
MacDonald says that given the popularity of the 4th of July celebration, it is unclear whether the time of the fireworks will change for next year.
Reported by Cherri Gregg, KYW Newsradio 1060
